Ginni Thomas Steps Down From Activist Group: Takes a 'Back Seat

Ginni Thomas, the recently controversial wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, has relinquished control of her conservative political group so as not to be a "distraction."

Ginni founded and was the CEO of Liberty Central, a group its website says "assists new citizen-activists in their search for educational resources and for tangible ways to impact our current political environment":

"She'll take a back seat so that Liberty Central can continue with its mission without any of the distractions," spokeswoman Caitlin Carroll told the Washington Post. "After discussing it with the board, Mrs. Thomas determined that it was best for the organization."

Rumors have circulated that Liberty Central could merge with other organizations, including fellow conservative group the Patrick Henry Center. Those claims, however, were refuted by Liberty's COO.

"There are many opportunities being presented to Liberty Central, but there is no agreement at this time," Sarah Field, chief operating officer and general counsel for Liberty Central, said in an e-mail to the Post. "The sources of this story appear to be people without full understanding of the facts."

Ginny grabbed headlines last month when she left a voice mail with Anita Hill, the woman who accused her husband of sexual assault, saying that Hill should apologize.

"I would love you to consider an apology sometimes and some full explanation of why you did what you did with my husband," Ginny's message said.